An elopement traditionally means to “run away” suddenly and get married in secret, typically to hide the marriage from family and friends. Doesn’t this sound so old-timey, like something that Romeo and Juliet would do? While that is still a very legitimate definition of elopement, we have now started to use the word to describe something very different. Here is a definition that I came up with based on what is currently happening in the wedding industry:
An elopement is an authentic and intentional celebration of marriage. The couple is able to create an experience that is a reflection of who they are without the social pressure and expectations of a traditional wedding.
1. You want to start your lives with an adventure
2. There is less stress and anxiety from planning
3. You want AMAZING photos in your favorite scenery
4. You want to put more money toward your future, not a party
5. You don’t like being the center of attention
6. You have a passion for the outdoors
7. You want an authentic and intimate experience
8. You want to spend the day with each other instead of greeting guests
9. You don’t want to deal with the social pressure of a wedding
10. There is less family drama
Couples elope because they can’t afford a big wedding – FALSE
Did you know that couples spend upwards of $20k on an elopement? Let’s say you want to get married in the Italian Dolomites. You hire a photographer, a videographer, buy your plane tickets, pay for that insanely awesome Airbnb with a view, maybe go on some kind of excursion and wham, that all adds up! Some couples do have an elopement because it has more opportunity to be less expensive than a wedding but it’s more about putting the money towards an experience of a lifetime! Like THE ultimate dream adventure.
Eloping is for unapproved, shameful marriages without support from family and friends – FALSE
What are we in the 1600s? Albeit, some couples elope without any family there because they only want to welcome positive vibes. But, other couples elope because it simply sounds funner and better for them! Most of my couples have all the support in the world from their family and friends but the traditional wedding just wasn’t for them.
Elopements are only for the couple and no other guests are allowed – FALSE
While the purpose of an elopement is to have an intimate experience, that doesn’t mean it has to just be you two. The only limitation you put on the ability to invite guests is where you decide to have your special day. If you have a sibling in a wheelchair, they’re probably not going to make it up a 3 mile hike in the mountains. If you have a parent with fear of flying, they’re probably not going to make it to an international destination. If you want your close family and friends to come, you will find the perfect place to make it happen.
Elopements are last minute, super quick, and poorly planned – FALSE
The inquiries I receive for elopements are typically being planned for 6 months to 1.5 years out. They can require quite a bit of planing in fact, especially when there are a lot of logistical considerations. Most elopements take all day, some couples even choose to have a multi-day experience. Check out this blog about a backpacking elopement here. Again, couples make an intentional decision to elope, not because it’s a plan B.
Figuring out where to go to shop for a wedding dress can be overwhelming, especially when it’s one of a million things to do on your wedding planning checklist. We’ve created a list of our favorite bridal shops in the PNW with a range of designers catering to all sorts of styles and budgets.
When it comes to keeping bears at a safe distance from camp and food rations, there a two primary options: hanging your food or using a bear canister. Here are the details on each.
If you’re choosing to elope over holding a 300+ person wedding, chances are you’re already saving quite a bit of money but costs can still add up! We’ve come up with some tips to save you even further when planning your dream elopement.
